Condensation Control

Condensation Control

Every winter thousands of homes across the UK suffer from condensation. Many of the properties are badly affected and experience widespread dampness, which often leads to persistent mould growth. Condensation is less common in properties built in the mid 1980’s, however condensation can occur even in the best designed and maintained buildings. In the refurbishment of older properties there are a number of remedial measures that can be taken to overcome this persistent problem.

Certain remedies lie in the hands of the householder, the effects of condensation can be greatly reduced by adopting a change in our daily lifestyle. Every day the average household produces between 10 and 20 litres of moisture: this is caused from daily occurrences such as breathing, bathing, cooking, washing and drying clothes. Condensation can be greatly reduced by simply opening windows more often, utilising suitable ventilation systems and heating the property sufficiently.

Specialists in structural waterproofing, our CSSW surveyors can recommend individually tailored systems to suit all types of projects.

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How To Avoid Condensation

Reduce the potential for condensation by producing less water.
  • Always cook with pan lids on and turn the heat down once the water has boiled
  • Dry washing outdoors if possible, or with the aid of clothes airer dry washing in the bathroom with the door closed and the window open and/or extractor fan on. DO NOT dry clothes on radiators.
  • If tumble dryers are used, then ensure the unit is vented to the outside, alternatively use a new condensing type unit.
  • Extractor fans should be fit for purpose and achieve the minimum flow rate as specified in Approved document F of Building Regulations. Extract fans should be automatically humidistat controlled and not solely activated by a light switch.
Ventilate your home to remove moisture.
  • Utilise the trickle vents at the top of the windows, ensuring that they remain open at all times
  • Isolate the kitchen and bathroom whilst cooking and bathing, by closing the doors, even if the areas benefit from having suitable extract fans. This reduces the amount of vapour laden air which circulates to other rooms, such as bedrooms which are often much colder and more vulnerable to condensation.
  • Allow space for air to circulate in and around large items of furniture, together with confined spaces such as cupboards and wardrobes.
  • To reduce the risk of mildew on clothes and other stored items, improve air circulation by removing the false wardrobe backs or alternatively drilling breather holes in them. DO NOT overfill cupboards and wardrobes as this restricts air circulation
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